ASB Classic Auckland sets new attendance record as fan numbers surge

The ASB Classic tennis tournament is getting bigger every year.

Fan support has reached unprecedented levels, with a record number of attendees passing through the gates of Manuka Doctor Arena over the 15-day tournament, representing an increase of more than 19% on last year’s previous record attendance.

Strong demand across both weeks resulted in 19 of the 22 sessions sold out and the highest overall attendance in the event’s history.

The WTA Women’s Week semi-finals also saw a new record for the site, with more than 4000 people attending the venue on that day. The brand-new Fan Zone in Takutai Square was also a hit with locals and visitors alike, with a 17% increase in patronage of the area across the tournament period.

From The Serve to the newly introduced Lexus Terrace, the 1956 Club and corporate hospitality spaces, food and drink sales reached record levels over the fortnight, with 20,514 Aperol Spritz served, and 1183 tennis ball desserts enjoyed, as fans soaked up the sunshine, entertainment and centre-court action that define summer at the ASB Classic.

A whopping 5000 truffle fries were sold, with $1 from each sale going to the Youthline charity.

Tournament director Nicolas Lamperin said: “This year’s ASB Classic exceeded expectations in every area – from the quality of tennis and the atmosphere in the arena, to the hospitality, broadcast reach and fan engagement. It’s a reflection of the players, fans, partners, volunteers and staff who all play a role in making this tournament such a special part of Auckland’s summer.”

The ASB Classic continued its commitment to giving back, with more than $112,000 raised for Youthline through fundraising initiatives such as ASB’s iconic Lobbo activations, supporting vital youth mental health services across New Zealand.

Volunteers once again played a critical role in the success of the ASB Classic. A total of 267 volunteers and 107 ball kids, spanning 11-88 years old, supported the tournament across a wide range of roles including accreditation, spectator services, drivers and player services. Many have been part of the event for decades, including Lenore Clark and Leith Hamilton who have both volunteered for over 25 years of service (and were recognised during the finals presentations).

The tournament saw more than 2500 volunteer shifts, with two volunteers travelling from overseas, and many travelling from other parts of Aotearoa, to be a part of the event.

Behind the scenes, tournament stringers prepared more than 1000 rackets for players across the fortnight, while Lexus completed more than 2000 player journeys, transporting athletes to and from the venue.

In total, 108 players from 31 nations competed at the 2026 ASB Classic, underlining the tournament’s growing international appeal and strength on the global tennis calendar.

On the women’s side, the consistency and grit of Elena Svitolina stood out, with the excitement generated by Alexandra Eala, especially among the Filipino community, with incredible scenes for all her matches – but particularly the first-round clash with Croatian Donna Vekic.

In the men’s draw, 20-year-old Czech Jakub Mensik saved three set points in a tense second-set tiebreaker before defeating Sebastian Baez 6-3 7-6(7) for a second ATP title.

The Herald revealed yesterday the ASB Classic will have one more edition to navigate rain disruptions – before the centre court roof is expected to be installed for the 2028 tournaments.

The tender process will be completed in the next four to six weeks, before Tennis Auckland hope to appoint a lead contractor and roof supplier.